Fishing in British Columbia, Canada

British Columbia

Fishing Opportunities Abound in British Columbia

British Columbia offers anglers almost boundless opportunities for sport fishing. The province offers freshwater and Pacific Ocean fishing opportunities encompassing a wide a variety of species and fishing techniques. Anglers fly fish for trout in a mountain stream one day and fish the deeps of the Pacific for trophy salmon or halibut the next day. Licenses for freshwater fishing are handled by the British Columbia authorities while saltwater or tidal fisheries are controlled by the Canadian government. Many outfitters and lodges specialize in providing fishing opportunities in British Columbia.

The Inside Passage

Protected by islands and mountains the Inside Passage of Vancouver Island provides sheltered fishing opportunities for several species of salmon. A variety of lodges provides varying levels of luxury for sportsmen and family. Many of the lodges include complete services including fish cleaning and packaging as well as lodging, meals and outfitting services.

Naden Harbor

Another top salmon fishery, the Naden Harbour area provides visitors with fly-in fishing on the Pacific Coast. Anglers can fish with a guide or on their own in the pristine waters of the harbor. Additional activities in the area include eagle and whale watching. The area offers a number of lodging and outfitting options.

Wakeman River

The Wakeman River winds through great scenic vistas of mountains and woods. It also offers first class fishing opportunities for anglers. Trout, steelhead and salmon rise to the flies of fishermen during the fishing season. The river empties into the Wakeman Sound and Kingcome Inlet. These bodies of water offer saltwater fishing opportunities for salmon and halibut. The lodges and guides of the area can provide additional information concerning the best seasons and tackle for the area.

Whistler

Whistler Village offers a wide variety of family recreational activities including fishing. Anglers can choose from a number of mountain streams and lakes. The fishing opportunities usually are best enjoyed with the services of a guide who can direct the angler to the best waters for the season.

Fraser River

Few fisheries match the Fraser River in angling or scenic opportunities. The river flows through wilderness areas offering great wildlife viewing opportunities. The fishing opportunities include trophy salmon and sturgeon as well as a variety of trout species. Sturgeon fishing can provide once in a lifetime opportunities to land monster fish. A number of lodges and guides offer services in the area.

The Fishing Highway

Officially known as Highway 24, the term the “Fishing Highway” describes the road best. Travelers along the route have numerous angling opportunities. Fly fishing is the best technique for enjoying these fishing opportunities. Check with the local guides and outfitters for the best fly patterns and tackle for these fishing adventures. The Fishing Highway also offers wildlife viewing, canoeing and kayaking opportunities and wilderness camping possibilities. The area provides a wide variety of outdoor activities to the sportsmen.

Skeena River

The Skeena River of northern British Columbia may have a shorter fishing season but offers great opportunities to anglers. A number of tributaries feed the Skeena with all supporting salmon and trout fishing opportunities. The area also is known for bear and wildlife watching. The Skeena supports a commercial salmon fishing industry but offers great sport fishing opportunities as well.